Why Athletes Should Drink Grass-Fed Milk
Milk is a nutritious, protein-packed drink. But grass-fed milk ups the ante, with more omega 3’s, CLA’s, and A2 protein. It’s the perfect fuel for sports recovery.
#1 The combined power of carbohydrates and protein
Post-exercise, the most critical macronutrients are protein and carbohydrates. Carbohydrates help your body recover from heavy exercise, and protein helps your body engage in more effective muscle reconditioning. Milk is high in both carbohydrates and proteins, and this combination makes it ideal for athletes. Just one cup of Zeal Grass Milk has 12 grams of carbohydrates and 8 grams of protein.
#2 Omega 3’s: An athletes friend
Fatty acids are the building block of fats in our bodies. Bad fatty acids are found in fried foods, vegetable oil, and junk foods. Good fatty acids are found in foods such as nuts, avocados, and fish.
One of the most important, healthy fatty acids is Omega 3’s. Omega 3’s support the muscular system - from reducing muscle loss, to repair and recovery. Omega 3’s also support the mind and body so you can push your muscles harder - as they aide sleep and help fight anxiety and depression.
Grass-fed cows not only produce the healthiest milk, but they produce the most Omega 3’s. Studies have shown that grass-fed milk has over 147% more Omega 3’s than conventional milk.
#3 A2 Protein and Grass-Fed Milk
Beta-casein accounts for around 30% of the protein found in cow's milk. It comes in two genetic variants: A1 and A2. Most commercial cattle breeds produce milk with A1 and A2 proteins, but only certain cow breeds (‘heritage cow’ breeds) produce milk with just A2 protein.
Why should athletes favor A2 protein? The alternative, A1, has been closely linked to inflammation and digestion problems. A2 protein, in contrast, is not linked to the same digestion problems and has been found to improve dynamic muscle function.
Zeal Grass-Fed Milk uses heritage cows that only produce A2 proteins. We let them graze freely on our farm. Turns out, cows produce the healthiest milk this way.
#4 Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): An Omega-6 fat that increases lean body mass
CLA’s are a healthy fat found in meat and dairy products. Studies have linked CLA’s to decreased fat deposits, increased lean body mass, and enhanced physical performance. All of this is good for the heart and great for the body. Grass-fed milk has elevated levels of CLA’s when compared to conventional grain-fed milk.
#5 Hormones and Weight Loss
Hormones are the chemical messengers of your body. They communicate with your mind to control your emotions, your appetite, and your hunger. Milk produces a variety of hormones that may control appetite and hunger. They are also rich in protein - which make you feel full and have a conclusive link to weight loss. Sugary sports drinks, on the other hand, spike your appetite levels while providing no proteins or carbohydrates for your muscles to grow and recover.
#6 Calcium and Electrolytes
Electrolytes are essential minerals in your blood and body fluids that carry an electric charge. They support hydration and help the body produce energy. A mild electrolyte disorder can produce overheating, fatigue, and muscle weakness. These disorders are quite common in people over 55. A severe electrolyte disorder can produce strokes and even cardiac arrest.
Milk is an excellent source of electrolytes, because it contains high amounts of calcium. Calcium is an essential electrolyte. We lose electrolytes through sweat, which makes milk a great way to replenish your body’s electrolytes after a heavy workout. Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade have long sold the benefits of electrolytes, but these companies fail to mention that these drinks are high in sugar and have no macronutrients (carbs/proteins) that are beneficial for athletes.
Grass-Fed Milk From Heritage Cows: The Zeal Grass Way
Cows love grass, and so do we. It helps them produce the best milk for us, and better health for you. Our free-range heritage cows produce milk that will help you build lean muscle mass, recover faster, and improve your health. And you can feel amazing about where your grass-fed milk comes from. Zeal Cows are always on the range. Never in a barn.